Senator David Argall and Representative Tim Twardzik circulated co-sponsorship memorandums Tuesday announcing plans to introduce legislation designating Exit 119 on Interstate 81 as the “PSP Trooper Michael E. Pahira Jr. Memorial Interchange.”
Trooper Pahira, 44, of Ashland, formerly of Frackville, died in the line of duty on July 1, 2026, after he was struck and killed by a tractor-trailer while performing a commercial vehicle safety inspection along Interstate 81 in Schuylkill County.
Pahira served nearly 20 years with the Pennsylvania State Police and was assigned to Troop L, Frackville.
In his Senate memorandum, Argall said the proposed legislation is intended to create a lasting tribute to Pahira’s service.
“To honor his memory, I will introduce legislation to designate Exit 119 on I-81 as the PSP Trooper Michael E. Pahira, Jr. Memorial Interchange,” Argall wrote while asking fellow senators to join him as co-sponsors.
Twardzik announced he will introduce identical legislation in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, mirroring Argall’s Senate proposal.
“In honor of his memory, Senator Argall as well as myself, will be introducing legislation designating Exit 119 on I-81 as the PSP Trooper Michael E. Pahira, Jr. Memorial Interchange,” Twardzik wrote.
Twardzik also encouraged fellow House members to support the measure, calling on lawmakers to honor Pahira’s service and ultimate sacrifice.
Both memorandums are the first step in the legislative process before the measures are formally introduced for consideration in Harrisburg.
Trooper Pahira was laid to rest Wednesday following funeral services at North Schuylkill High School, where family, friends, fellow law enforcement officers, first responders, and community members gathered to honor his life and service.